Electrochemical genosensors on-a-chip: Applications in early diagnosis of pathogens

Abstract

Electrochemical genosensors have emerged as a powerful tool for the early diagnosis of pathogens, offering advantages such as high sensitivity, rapid response times, low cost, and easy adaptability for point-of-care applications. This review highlights recent advancements in CRISPR-Cas-integrated electrochemical systems, novel nanomaterial architectures, and label-free detection mechanisms. Key innovations include anisotropic gold nanostructures, MXene composites with exceptional conductivity, and poly(ortho-aminophenol) films, which enable attomolar detection limits for pathogens such as bacteria and parasites. We evaluate DNA hybridization-based approaches, emphasizing innovations in signal amplification strategies such as saltatory rolling circle amplification and self-assembled monolayers, which address specificity challenges in complex matrices. Additionally, we highlight the integration of electrochemical genosensors with microfluidic platforms, including automated sample-to-answer workflows and multiplexed detection architectures, which address traditional laboratory bottlenecks. By cataloging advancements in material science, bioreceptor design, and microfluidic automation, this work provides a comprehensive yet focused resource for researchers advancing the frontiers of rapid, portable pathogen diagnostics. Furthermore, we explore the commercial potential of these technologies, providing insights that could guide the development of highly sensitive, field-deployable biosensors for clinical and environmental applications.